Deborah’s Mental Health Story

Deborah Schrepper authored “A Walk in My Garden” and her latest book, “Her Secret Sins – Her Journey from Prostitution to Princess”.  She is a seasoned and well-requested speaker and mentor. The now licensed practical nurse empowers those from all walks of life by speaking on various topics, including openly sharing how she overcame many challenges such as addiction, prostitution, abuse, and rape. Deborah also takes care of her two children, who have Asperger’s Autism Disorder, and this has enabled her to mentor and coach other parents of children with the same or similar disorders.

With a clear purpose and vision, Deborah began her brand Harvesting Life’s Lessons. She continues to grow in knowledge and pledges to always encourage others to learn to overcome the organized chaos that surrounds each of us. Walk with Deborah and me through her mental health story.

Fancy: How would you describe your swagher?  What makes Deborah, Deborah

Deborah: I am unique with my swagher, because I march to the beat of my own drum. I have to keep it real and transparent, because I would forget otherwise.  I have learned that my obstacles are my greatest possibilities, and with each step I take, I lead to inspire others.

What makes Deborah, Deborah? I do not allow others’ opinions of me to cloud my thoughts or make me react to their situation.  I cannot control how others perceive me; I can only enhance my own life by doing what I know to help others overcome their struggles and encourage others to embrace their challenges.

Fancy: I often think people don’t understand the mental impact and trauma that one encounters in sex work. How did your experiences play a toll on your mental health?

Deborah: I do suffer from PTSD from the things I’ve had to do while living that lifestyle. Often I have flashbacks and find myself having to meditate myself out of that old mentality of desperation. Even though it was  25 years ago, it’s fresh in my mind and often leaves me feeling worthless. I have learned that prayer and meditation are my rescuers in every attack that I have or any depression period.

Fancy: Did your sexual assault occur before or during your time as a prostitute?

Deborah: It was mostly during the time that I was a sex worker.  I never wanted to say anything to anyone for fear of judgment, and I could not report the incidents due to that reason.

Fancy: I know healing looks different to each individual, but what did healing look like for you?

Deborah: Healing to me looks like a life long road.  Individuals must realize healing does not happen overnight and expectations should not be as such.  Healing happens as we live life without fear. Healing needs to happen with every new obstacle we encounter, and for me writing was pivotal. I felt like I couldn’t talk to anyone (even today), so the only way to release my heavy load was and is to write my feelings.

 

Deborah will be speaking at the Crazy Like a Fox: Black Mental Health Matters Brunch Tour in Atlanta, May 25th and again in Philadelphia July 14th. RSVP at www.crazylikeafoxtour.com/rsvp. 

Website: www.harvestinglifeslessons.com

Website: www.harmonygoal.com

Facebook: @harvestinglifeslessons

Facebook: @Deborahschrepper 

Facebook: @theharmonycoach

Instagram: @harvestinglifeslessons

Twitter: @AWalkinMyGarden